Dorcas Adesokan, a prominent figure in African badminton, has experienced a career marked by significant achievements and a recent resurgence after a two-year maternity hiatus. Her journey began in 2008, rapidly ascending through the ranks with the guidance of dedicated coaches. The 2009 All African Junior U-15 Championships in Mauritius served as a pivotal moment, igniting a passion that propelled her to the pinnacle of African badminton, achieving the number one ranking in 2019. This early success laid the foundation for a career filled with national and international accolades, representing both Ogun State and Nigeria on numerous occasions. Her story exemplifies the transformative power of early success and the dedication required to reach the highest echelons of a sport.
Adesokan’s decision to take a two-year break from professional badminton to start a family was a deliberate and planned choice, coinciding with her qualification for the Olympics. This period, while filled with the joys of motherhood, was also a time of disconnection from the sport she loved. While she missed the competition and training, Adesokan remained committed to her plan, maintaining a quiet confidence in her eventual return. The transition back to professional badminton presented its own set of challenges, requiring her to balance the demands of motherhood, marriage, and a rigorous training schedule. Her husband’s unwavering support proved invaluable in navigating this complex juggling act, enabling her to pursue her career while nurturing her family.
The return to competitive badminton has been marked by impressive performances, reaffirming Adesokan’s status as a force to be reckoned with. Her victories at the African Games in Ghana, the Lagos International Classics, and the 2024 National Sports Festival demonstrate her resilience and adaptability. While acknowledging the physical adjustments required after her break, she has maintained her training regimen, focusing on regaining peak form. Reclaiming the national title at the National Sports Festival was a significant achievement, further solidifying her comeback. Though she faced the pressure of competing on home soil, Adesokan approached the tournament with a focus on enjoying the game and performing at her best. This mindset, coupled with her undeniable talent, resulted in a triumphant sweep of gold medals in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles.
The two-year hiatus inevitably impacted Adesokan’s ranking, but she remains undeterred in her pursuit of regaining her position at the top, both nationally and continentally. She acknowledges the healthy competition within the Nigerian national team, emphasizing the respect between teammates that transcends individual rivalries. However, on the African stage, the rivalry is more pronounced, adding another layer of motivation to her comeback journey. Adesokan’s focus extends beyond national borders, with her sights set on international competitions like the Lagos Classics and the All African Championships. These tournaments serve as stepping stones towards her ultimate goal: qualifying for the Olympics and once again representing Nigeria on the world’s biggest sporting stage.
Looking beyond her playing career, Adesokan envisions a future dedicated to mentoring and nurturing the next generation of female badminton players. Her desire to remain involved in the sport, potentially as a coach, reflects a deep commitment to giving back to the community that has shaped her. She offers invaluable advice to aspiring young players, emphasizing the importance of determination, focus, and planning. These qualities, she believes, are essential for navigating the challenges and achieving success in any field. This mentorship ambition underscores Adesokan’s desire to leave a lasting legacy, extending beyond her personal achievements to empower and inspire future athletes.
Interestingly, despite her passion for badminton, Adesokan does not wish for her son to follow in her footsteps. She attributes this decision to the demanding nature of the men’s game, preferring that he explore other sports, particularly ball games. This perspective reveals a nuanced understanding of the sport’s rigors and a mother’s protective instincts. She acknowledges that if her son were to choose badminton, it would necessitate a significant investment in developing his mental fortitude. This stance highlights the often-overlooked mental aspect of competitive sports, particularly in the demanding world of professional badminton.
